Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Why Make This Recipe

Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is the perfect dish for family dinners or potlucks. It combines savory chicken, gooey cheese, and a hint of spice, creating a flavorful dish that everyone will love. This hearty casserole is filling, easy to make, and can be prepped ahead of time. You can enjoy it as a comforting weeknight meal or share it with friends at gatherings.

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How to Make Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Ingredients:

• 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 8 oz spaghetti
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup fresh bell peppers (chopped)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 cup green onions (sliced)

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large casserole dish.
2. Cook the chicken in a large pot over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
3. Boil salted water and cook spaghetti until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
4. In a bowl, mix shredded chicken, cooked spaghetti, cream of chicken soup, bell peppers, spices, and half of the cheddar cheese until well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to the greased casserole dish and top with remaining cheese. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
6. Let it rest for 5 minutes before garnishing with chopped green onions and serving.

How to Serve Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Serve the casserole warm, letting the cheese melt in each portion. You can pair it with a simple green salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. This dish is great on its own but can also be enhanced with hot sauce for extra heat or fresh herbs for added freshness.

How to Store Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The casserole will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place it in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Tips to Make Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

• For a creamier texture, add a bit of milk or sour cream into the casserole mix.
• Feel free to adjust the spice levels by adding more or less cayenne pepper based on your preference.
• You can use rotisserie chicken to save time and make the preparation even faster.

Variation

You can customize this casserole by adding different vegetables, like mushrooms or spinach, or swapping out cheddar cheese for a different type of cheese, like mozzarella or pepper jack, to increase the flavor profile.

FAQs

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake it.

2. Can I freeze the leftover casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the leftover casserole. Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can stay frozen for up to 3 months.

3. What can I serve with this casserole?
You can enjoy this casserole with a side of steamed vegetables, a green salad, or garlic bread for a well-rounded meal.

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